Quarterback Philip Rivers and head coach Anthony Lynn addressed the media Wednesday, with both expressing optimism in the Chargers' ability to rebound after the Week 2 loss.
"I'd expect us to be fired up and ready to bounce back," Rivers said. "We've shown the ability to do that over the years when we've lost some tough ones...You gotta find a way to bounce back and go."
"I think we'll respond in a positive way," Lynn said. "We always have. I know the character and heart of this football team...When you lose one like you lost last week, you can't wait to get back on the field. I think everybody in the locker room feels that way."
Rivers said, however, that the team has moved on from last week's disappointment.
"That one's gone," Rivers said. "You move on to a new week."
Lynn Confident in Ty Long
When asked whether he'd sign a kicker if Mike Badgley isn't ready to play, given Ty Long missing two field goals in Detroit, Lynn stuck with his punter-turned-also kicker.
"We'll go with Ty [Long]," Lynn said. "We got a lot of confidence in Ty...It (missing kicks) happens. Ty's very confident. We're confident in Ty. If we have to kick him again, we'll do it."
Civil War
Fullback Derek Watt vs. Texans defensive end J.J. Watt is not the only family battle taking place at ROKiT Field at Dignity Health Sports Park Sunday, as the Chargers' head coach will be going up against his son, D'Anton Lynn, for the first time in their NFL coaching careers. The younger Lynn served as a defensive assistant under his father with the Chargers in 2017 and is currently the assistant defensive backs coach for the Texans.
"I never thought about that until you said something," Lynn said. "Just kidding. It'll be sweet. Bragging rights are definitely on the line."
Roderic Teamer Back in Action
Rookie safety Roderic Teamer is expected to make his NFL debut against the Texans after missing the first two weeks of the season with a hamstring injury. He was a full participant in practice Wednesday, and Lynn said he'll be getting many reps this week.
Arrival of Lance Kendricks
The Chargers signed tight end Lance Kendricks Tuesday. The veteran previously played for the Rams and Packers, recording 2,505 yards receiving over eight seasons.
"It feels good to be back in L.A. and just another opportunity to play ball," Kendricks said. "It's a great organization, and I'm happy to be here."
Kendricks said he brings versatility to the team, including his ability to catch passes, block and play on special teams.
Lynn also commented on Kendricks' versatility, adding that his veteran status will benefit the team.
Kendricks said he is looking forward to playing with another veteran star quarterback in Rivers after catching passes from Aaron Rodgers the past two seasons.
"Veterans are tight end-friendly guys, and they make it easy for you," Kendricks said. "They make sure that you're comfortable out there, and they lead the pack."
Other Chargers Transactions
The Chargers also re-signed defensive end Chris Peace. Safety Adrian Phillips, who broke his forearm in Detroit, was placed on injured reserve, and wide receiver Andre Patton was waived Tuesday before being signed to the practice squad Wednesday. Safety Adarius Pickett was also signed to the practice squad. The team released rookie tight end Matt Sokol from the practice squad Wednesday.
Deshaun Watson
Lynn described Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson as "insane," saying that there's "nothing he can't do."
"His ability to escape, extend plays," Lynn said. "He's an outstanding young quarterback."
Rivers called Watson "a heckuva player" and "tough." "Still early in his career," Rivers said, "but he's off to a heckuva start."
Texans Defense
Lynn said Texas linebacker Whitney Mercilus has become "a proven pass rusher in this league."
"Obviously, J.J. [Watt]'s...getting a lot of attention," Lynn said. "But this young man is wrecking the game a little bit, so we definitely have to watch him."
Rivers also spoke about the Texans' strong defense, comparing it to the Lions in that sense.
"It's a good front, a good defense, and we'll have our work cut out for us," Rivers said.
The Chargers host the Texans at 1:25pm Sunday at ROKiT Field at Dignity Health Sports Park.
Take an inside look as the Chargers return home to the Hoag Performance Center to begin preparations for the Houston Texans.
